Peng Chau, a small island west of Hong Kong, has turned into a well-developed community without losing its attractiveness as a traditional fishing village.

With the recent completion of two final reclamation projects there by the Territory Development Department, Peng Chau, one of 12 rural areas considered for development in early 1970s, has successfully transformed into a community with essential facilities to better serve local residents and tourists.

Metamorphosis: Peng Chau, a traditional fishing village, has been fully developed with a ferry pier, left, and promenade, right. Meanwhile, Government officials and Islands District Council representatives officiate at a ceremony to mark the completion of development works.

The Department started Peng Chau's development with a feasibility study in 1975.

With its findings, a development plan for the island was worked out and 14 contracts totalling $480 million have been awarded since 1981 to bring changes to this predominately rural and fishing-based community.

After more than two decades of development, nine hectares of land have been provided by reclamation or site formation, and public facilities have been built, giving Hong Kong not only a top rural place to live, but also a great venue for daytrips and sightseeing.